Donor Stories

Dr. Carolyn Wiese Martin ’70 Ensures Her Future Support with Bequest Gift

Jim and Carolyn Martin

Dr. Carolyn Wiese Martin ’70 won a full academic scholarship to Lindenwood through the Greater St. Louis Science Fair in her senior year of high school. “I’d never thought of attending Lindenwood because my parents couldn’t afford to send me to college without financial aid,” she says. “But after winning the scholarship, I went for my first campus visit and was head-over-heels sold.”

In addition to contributing to previous fundraising initiatives, Carolyn has also ensured her continued support of the University with a bequest in her will. “Lindenwood gave me a great and unexpected chance at higher education with that scholarship,” she says. “I want to be able to give back to the school and help other students have these same opportunities.”

After receiving her BA in biology, Carolyn went on to earn her MD and specialized in obstetric and gynecologic ultrasound for 44 years. She still works part time and enjoys working with the residents and medical students that rotate through her division. She remains involved with Lindenwood through reunion and alumni activities and by participating in a panel of alumni who interact with students offering career information, guidance, and life advice on achieving success along the way to their chosen careers.

“I hope students will be able to achieve something that they would not otherwise be able to achieve as a result of my gift,” she says. “And I hope the memories they make at Lindenwood will last a lifetime and generate other benefactors for the school.”

Carolyn also hopes others will be inspired to include a legacy gift to the University as part of their estate planning. “There are many giving opportunities, small or large, for every donor—even the smallest gifts can be combined together to do great work,” she concludes. “If you want to give back, I encourage you to reach out and explore the options for giving to Lindenwood.”